How Do I Earn a Microsoft MCSA Certification?

<h3 id="section---MCSACertificationOverview">MCSA Certification Overview</h3> <p>The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate certification replaced the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification. The retired MCSA certification focused on specific job roles in network systems while the new certifications are broader programs that focus on designing and producing technological solutions. The new MCSA certifications are required prerequisites to earning Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) expert-level certifications. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutMCSACertification">Important Facts About MCSA Certification</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites* </td><td> No required prerequisites, however prior experience with networks and databases is strongly recommended</td></tr> <tr><td> Degree Field* </td><td> Information Technology</td></tr> <tr><td> Programs* </td><td> MCSA preparation programs are commonly available at secondary schools and online in each certification</td></tr> <tr><td> Continuing Education* </td><td> Exams for MCSA recertification are available, and students may also seek Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) Certification</td></tr> <tr><td>Median Annual Salary (2021)**</td><td>$80,600 (<i>for all network and computer systems administrators</i>)</td></tr> <tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)**</td><td>3% (<i>for all network and computer systems administrators</i>)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Sources: *www.microsoft.com; **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---CertificationOptions">Certification Options</h3> <p>Currently, Microsoft offers seven MCSA certification programs. The specializations give students an opportunity to distinguish themselves from other job applicants, and they help IT managers identify key personnel who may be useful in the areas of security or messaging. As of fall 2015, current MCSA certifications include: </p> <ul><li>MCSA: Windows Server 2012 </li><li>MCSA: Windows Server 2008 </li><li>MCSA: Windows 8 </li><li>MCSA: Windows 7 </li><li>MCSA: SQL Server 2012 </li><li>MCSA: SQL Server 2008 </li><li>MCSA: Office 365 </li></ul><h3 id="section---CertificationRequirements">Certification Requirements</h3> <p>Each MCSA option consists of a series of core exams that are scheduled and taken through the Prometric testing service, which maintains testing and education centers across the United States. MCSA certification requires IT professionals to complete two or three exams, depending on the specific certification path. The Windows 8 and Office 365 paths each require passing two exams; the rest of the MCSA credentials require three exams. Each exam has a corresponding optional training course. Some of the prep courses are available online, while others are in-person courses that can be found at various sites across the country. </p> <h3 id="section---CareerInformation">Career Information</h3> <p>Some of the job titles held by professionals seeking MCSA certification include computer systems administrator, computer network specialist, network administrator, technical support specialist, database developer or cloud application administrator.</p>